Top 5 Current Signature Moves in the NBA

Easily the best shooting big man of all time, Dirk Nowitzki earned his spot on this list.

Pushing aside my strong like for the Dallas Mavericks, Dirk Nowitzki entered the league premature and doubtful. Critics brushed him off early saying that he was a bust and would never go far in the league.

Nine years, an NBA finals trip and MVP award later, and you got yourself one of the top-ten leading scorers in the league.

His unusual big man style of play seemed to leave many in speculation with his weaknesses. Would he be able to defend in the post? Does Dirk have any defence skill period?

It was (and still is) sort of hard to determine his defensive ability.

But one thing that never seems to fail him is his free throw area, fade away jumper. His ability to back down the competition into his comfort zone is uncanny. His height allows him to have direct eye contact with the basket after he turns and fades. He kicks his front foot forward and the rest is automatic.

When I think of premier guards in the NBA today, I think Deron Williams, Chauncey Billups and Chris Paul.

Their ability to dish assists, score some points, and keep their team under control is second nature to them. However, if I were to choose the most talented guards (out of the three) it would have to be Paul.

His speed and control on the offensive end is unbelievable. His ability to read the opposition's offense and defend is incredible as well.

He has established himself as a marquee player in the NBA, and one of reasons he has done so is by his amazing dribbling skills.

One of his tricks is his infamous "inside-out" crossover that hypnotizes the opponents. A quick trick dribble between his legs and he has you looking for him.

*Ganon Baker series. It was extremely tough to find the original video. Please notify me if you find it.

Who better to have the ball during the final seconds of a nail-biter than Paul Pierce? He always seems to shake off his defender and score with ease.

He has performed a wide range of moves that make it easier for him to score. His decent size for a forward helps him against bigger players, but awards him against smaller players.

His infamous step-back jumper leaves his defender with a late recovery. The step-back jumper creates space between the scorer and the defender, making it extremely difficult for the defender to check his man.

A hand few of others use this move properly, I just happen to believe that the "Truth" is a refined master.

*For the step-back jumper continue on to 1:40. It is very low key move but extremely effective.

When you have Tony Parker attacking the middle, you can expect quite a few scoring tactics from the French guard.

First off, his ability to break down opponents at the three-point arc is outstanding; one of the best in the league today. He is easily one of the fastest guards in the NBA, so his speed is another boost.

Finally, his capability to finish near the hoop is remarkable. Parker is a player who can take the hard and aggressive contact near the basket, but can also trick the defender into his offensive character.

His finger roll is grand but he tricks his opposition with his signature teardrop lay-up.

The teardrop tricks forces the defender to make the right decision when trying to block. The speed at which it comes down is also something to worry about when regarding rebounding. A teardrop takes concentration and a nice touch.

By far the most matchless move currently in the NBA.

It employs the fundamentals of the game, but it is so overwhelming that many people want to see it again.

The simple use of the pump fake and the effortless use of the pivot foot leave the defender lost in a fury of motions.

This move might have been done before, but we thank Bryant for bringing it back for the new NBA universe to see.

Very practical!